I don’t mean to shout from the rooftops - with relief no less. After all, HIV is not a death sentence (as it was once viewed in the past). With progress in anti-retroviral treatment HIV is now recognised as a manageable chronic disease for the 33 million people worldwide currently living with the virus; it’s not doom and gloom – which is why we use the word ‘living’ not ‘dying’ with the virus.
Nevertheless, anyone who’s been in my position can sympathise that’s it’s an unforgiving nerve-racking period sitting there, waiting for the result.
Before I took the ‘FasTEST’ same day HIV test service at the Terrance Higgins Trust clinic (in Waterloo) I was surveyed, grilled with deeply personal questions – but research required (as a condition) by the trained health professionals to see if I represented any of the groups where HIV is most prominent. So, without further ado, I was asked if I was homosexual, had multiple sex partners on the go, had taken any drugs using a needle (and so on and so on) No. No and… no.
But even then I felt nervous. 60 minutes of perspiration - despite the fact I knew I didn’t fit into any of the HIV ‘high risk groups’. Even then, I wondered, for any who did fit into the ‘high risk’ categories, what must go through their heads as they watch time go by a bit too slow for comfort?
A few drops of blood later and it was confirmed – I am HIV negative. Having gleefully abandoned Biology and Chemistry at G.C.S.E. level the scientific technicalities of the test were beyond me. But it was done. Dusted. Simples. I walked out as easily as I had walked in. And then my mind backtracked to this documentary I had recently watched about HIV/AIDS and homosexuality in Kenya:
Guardian Films and Christian Aid follow ‘Melvin’, a gay prostitute on the streets of Mombasa, living cautiously and often abused in a very stigmatised environment when it comes to homosexuality and HIV; and with the memory of murdered Ugandan gay activist David Kato fresh in everyone’s mind. Melvin is definitely ‘high risk’ – but will he get HIV tested? No. The fear feeds an ‘ignorance is bliss’ attitude as he sees those who are gay and HIV positive subject to severe hostility and discrimination – in a country where there wasn’t a single medical facility for gay people until 2006.
Yet it took me one hour and no qualms to get tested in London; though I shouldn't forget to credit the superb persuasive powers of the Terrance Higgins 'FasTEST' saleswoman on street who convinced me to say "Why not!?" on my way home from work. No appointment needed. No charge. Confidentiality. No age, class, race, sexual preference, or immigration status limitations. One on one private advice before and after the test. IF I was found to be HIV positive, the Terrance Higgins clinic would’ve helped me get the support I required from local services. And, if not Waterloo, I had my pick of seven other walk-in clinics in London (and many more across the country).
In my opinion, everyone should be entitled to such health service and respect, which is why HIV justice actions such as this one set up by UNAIDS are so important: www.whatabouthiv.org; the vision is for a future with zero new HIV infections, zero stigma and discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths.
I started this blog by stating HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence. Though perhaps I can only say that with confidence because I live in this city.
For more information on local and national sexual health services, and to find your nearest HIV testing clinic, visit www.tht.org.uk/fastest
This is also published on the Media Trust Community Channel
5/22/2011
5/20/2011
Review: 2011 London Youth Policy Symposium
Young people. Youth. The next generation. Young adults. Young’uns. Young-guns. Adolescents. Youts. The yout-dem. Teenagers. Youngsters.
WHATEVER you wish to call us/them (I’m 23… what the hell does that make me?), that matters little; as long as mutual respect reigns over any patronisation and ignorance, I’m a happy lil’ boy undettered by the generation gap. Labels and pigeon holes aside, what does matter is that respect and understanding which sets the foundation for promise.
Though for that promise to be fulfilled, action must be the follow up. And I guess that’s what the point of this year – officially the UN International Year of Youth (August 2010-2011). Over the past few months from London to Bamako, New York to Beijing and beyond, conference after youth event after debate after projects have been created to convert all that hot air surrounding ‘youth development’ into some clean cut agendas.
The latest one I attended as a social reporter (above, me, tapping away) was the 2011 London Youth Policy Symposium at the Royal Chace Hotel in my very own great green back yard - Enfield; a good 20+ train stops away from my home in east London, but home soil nonetheless. From Washington in January, Brussels in March and a penultimate session unfortunately cancelled in Nairobi, this was the fourth and final in a series of symposiums set up by the British Youth Council and Open Society Foundations (supported by the British Youth Council as well as the Commonwealth Youth Exchange Council), bringing key youth stakeholders together from around the world to learn, share and better meaningful youth participation in international decision-making.
Due to my face being stuck to my laptop/work, I missed all the chin-wagging of London Symposium Day 1 (May 17), which focused more on the issues and challenges of mobilising global youth voices. However, I was happy to roll in on Day 2 (May 18) which looked ahead to the solutions and action points (always my favourite part).
Some exciting, high-end to grassroots and innovative organisations brought their expertise and experience to the table, and with me not wanting to write a dissertation about wider strategies and mainstreaming, conditions and capacity building, impact of youth participation, transparency of organisations and structures, accountability and representation of youth people… (catch your breathe), here’s the run down of some key messages plus snapshots from the day:
Youth audit on the UN. Capitalise on our informal and formal networks. Train and support established leaders to lead and facilitate young people.
We must do all of the above according to Jennifer Corriero, Co-founder of Taking IT Global.
Regard young people as potential, a resource – not a ‘problem’ as many are referred to, said Mutinta Munyata and Kristoffer Sunday, of UN Habitat (located in Nairobi, Kenya), who set up and promoted an urban youth programme as well as a youth advisory board; one which harnesses youth participation, as well as provides strategic advice to UN-Habitat coordinators.
Sarah Huxley of DFid (UK Department For International Development) and author of the Youth CSO Network Youth Participation in Development Guide – spoke of having to create a strategic framework like the one she was involved in, surrounding prioritising youth participation on a global level; this now includes steering committees and co-ordinating sharing and learning networks across a range of nations.
And Kat Watson of IPPF (International Planned Parenthood Federation) recounted creating an International Youth Committee with her organisation as a form of good practice – putting young people at the forefront of youth policy; helping youth people to have a voice, but also "helping the older generation to have an ear."
We must address the challenges! (a general reoccurring key point); from the lack of access to facilities, to the demand of grants and funding from needy youth groups, overcoming apathy, improving communication and providing constant opportunity for youth representation from grassroots, to advocacy and policy-making levels.
Great points all round. Though, as you can tell, we can state the issues/problems (from sunrise to sunset). The immense list of WHY is endless. Next step, beyond the corridors of a hotel in London town, has to be HOW we actively tackle the obstacles of meaningful international youth participation, and see that promise come to fruition.
Stay tuned at www.youthpolicy.org/participation as more ideas and research is collated to bring out the questions, and bring in the answers.
Photos: Elaine Wong - www.elainewong.co.uk
For more photos: www.flickr.com/youthpolicy
This is also published on the Media Trust Community Channel
WHATEVER you wish to call us/them (I’m 23… what the hell does that make me?), that matters little; as long as mutual respect reigns over any patronisation and ignorance, I’m a happy lil’ boy undettered by the generation gap. Labels and pigeon holes aside, what does matter is that respect and understanding which sets the foundation for promise.
Though for that promise to be fulfilled, action must be the follow up. And I guess that’s what the point of this year – officially the UN International Year of Youth (August 2010-2011). Over the past few months from London to Bamako, New York to Beijing and beyond, conference after youth event after debate after projects have been created to convert all that hot air surrounding ‘youth development’ into some clean cut agendas.
The latest one I attended as a social reporter (above, me, tapping away) was the 2011 London Youth Policy Symposium at the Royal Chace Hotel in my very own great green back yard - Enfield; a good 20+ train stops away from my home in east London, but home soil nonetheless. From Washington in January, Brussels in March and a penultimate session unfortunately cancelled in Nairobi, this was the fourth and final in a series of symposiums set up by the British Youth Council and Open Society Foundations (supported by the British Youth Council as well as the Commonwealth Youth Exchange Council), bringing key youth stakeholders together from around the world to learn, share and better meaningful youth participation in international decision-making.
Due to my face being stuck to my laptop/work, I missed all the chin-wagging of London Symposium Day 1 (May 17), which focused more on the issues and challenges of mobilising global youth voices. However, I was happy to roll in on Day 2 (May 18) which looked ahead to the solutions and action points (always my favourite part).
Some exciting, high-end to grassroots and innovative organisations brought their expertise and experience to the table, and with me not wanting to write a dissertation about wider strategies and mainstreaming, conditions and capacity building, impact of youth participation, transparency of organisations and structures, accountability and representation of youth people… (catch your breathe), here’s the run down of some key messages plus snapshots from the day:
Youth audit on the UN. Capitalise on our informal and formal networks. Train and support established leaders to lead and facilitate young people.
We must do all of the above according to Jennifer Corriero, Co-founder of Taking IT Global.
Regard young people as potential, a resource – not a ‘problem’ as many are referred to, said Mutinta Munyata and Kristoffer Sunday, of UN Habitat (located in Nairobi, Kenya), who set up and promoted an urban youth programme as well as a youth advisory board; one which harnesses youth participation, as well as provides strategic advice to UN-Habitat coordinators.
Sarah Huxley of DFid (UK Department For International Development) and author of the Youth CSO Network Youth Participation in Development Guide – spoke of having to create a strategic framework like the one she was involved in, surrounding prioritising youth participation on a global level; this now includes steering committees and co-ordinating sharing and learning networks across a range of nations.
And Kat Watson of IPPF (International Planned Parenthood Federation) recounted creating an International Youth Committee with her organisation as a form of good practice – putting young people at the forefront of youth policy; helping youth people to have a voice, but also "helping the older generation to have an ear."
We must address the challenges! (a general reoccurring key point); from the lack of access to facilities, to the demand of grants and funding from needy youth groups, overcoming apathy, improving communication and providing constant opportunity for youth representation from grassroots, to advocacy and policy-making levels.
Great points all round. Though, as you can tell, we can state the issues/problems (from sunrise to sunset). The immense list of WHY is endless. Next step, beyond the corridors of a hotel in London town, has to be HOW we actively tackle the obstacles of meaningful international youth participation, and see that promise come to fruition.
Stay tuned at www.youthpolicy.org/participation as more ideas and research is collated to bring out the questions, and bring in the answers.
Photos: Elaine Wong - www.elainewong.co.uk
For more photos: www.flickr.com/youthpolicy
This is also published on the Media Trust Community Channel
5/17/2011
Review: The Greenhouse Effect @ Farm: Shop - Dalston
What a venue! I can’t lie – it didn’t instantly catch my wondering eyes from the outside. In fact, coming out of Dalston Junction underground station, I took a right and walked straight past the venue (twice) before realising. Yet beyond the barred windows of the Farm: Shop lays the most environmentally friendly event setting I’ve seen in the bustling neck of the woods I call east London.
Check out the vid to see it being put together:
Founded by Something & Sons, the agriculture centre run by volunteers demonstrates different ways of growing food in Hackney (and London in general); with a chicken pen (for eggs) on the roof, fish tanks (providing nutrients for plants) at the front of the community café, vegetables growing in the greenhouse out back, and mushrooms all around the shop. A pure green hub – a perfect spot on May 12 for The Greenhouse Effect; a spoken word poetry, music, and panel discussion night tackling that evergreen issue: climate change.
Catherine Brogan (above, who I’ve caught a few times performing alongside her Rhymes Won’t Wait Collective companions) opened the show inside the greenhouse, easing the audience in with some humorous bits of poetry.
The panel discussion followed (see pic below), compared by the lovely Maleena Pone – a session that pitted three sides of the climate action spectrum: Laura Trevelyan from Christian Aid who engage politicians and other networks in climate justice for the developing world, Raj Malhi from the UKYCC (UK Youth Climate Change Coalition) who rally up and educate young people on the issue, and Dan Glass, representing for Plane Stupid who take a direct action approach (meaning occupying power stations and airport runways is no qualm for the Plane Stupid activists).
Expertise in the different fields shone through, each stating personal struggles, successes, hopes and apprehensions. In the end, there was no gold, silver or bronze medals awarded, just three golden stars as each panellist stated different methods work for different audiences, and that we’re on the right track as long as the climate action movement is growing and constantly on the radar.
Recycle? Lobby your MP? Cycle to work? Create a youth-led flashmob? Convert the naysayers? Educate the ignorant? Get climate change in the national curriculum? Shut down a carbon spewing factory? The ball’s in your court.
The rest of the night was a music and spoken word fest – as I shed weight trying to catch each act running from the greenhouse in the garden to the room upstairs. Nick Lee provided some acoustic tunes, Becca Bland set a nice vibe with extracts from her upcoming novel, Pete the Temp (above) rocked the greenhouse with some sing-a-long anthems, there was a bit of folk by Martha Rose, some brilliant poetry by carbon footprint analyst and writer Danny Chivers, Yomi aka G.R.E.Ed.S (below) got everyone swaying with his guitar accompanied poetry, and finally (but far from least), Nick Mulvey closed the evening with a show-stopping (literally) set – which included his version of a Congolese beat; I doubt anyone understood a word of the Lingala verses – but it was soul-filling nonetheless.
The after party at Favela Chic in Old Street, together with Brazilian hip hop and rounds of Mojitos, meant it was a fabulous Thursday - albeit a heavy one, with a painful Friday morning as a follow-up.
£4 entry? For the Greenhouse Effect? Well worth the hangover.
Photos: Tekla Balfour
If you’re into the green life (in any way) I recommend checking out the Farm: Shop:
20 Dalston Lane
City of London
E8 3AZ
Or call:
020 3490 5124
This is also published on the Media Trust Community Channel
Check out the vid to see it being put together:
Founded by Something & Sons, the agriculture centre run by volunteers demonstrates different ways of growing food in Hackney (and London in general); with a chicken pen (for eggs) on the roof, fish tanks (providing nutrients for plants) at the front of the community café, vegetables growing in the greenhouse out back, and mushrooms all around the shop. A pure green hub – a perfect spot on May 12 for The Greenhouse Effect; a spoken word poetry, music, and panel discussion night tackling that evergreen issue: climate change.
Catherine Brogan (above, who I’ve caught a few times performing alongside her Rhymes Won’t Wait Collective companions) opened the show inside the greenhouse, easing the audience in with some humorous bits of poetry.
The panel discussion followed (see pic below), compared by the lovely Maleena Pone – a session that pitted three sides of the climate action spectrum: Laura Trevelyan from Christian Aid who engage politicians and other networks in climate justice for the developing world, Raj Malhi from the UKYCC (UK Youth Climate Change Coalition) who rally up and educate young people on the issue, and Dan Glass, representing for Plane Stupid who take a direct action approach (meaning occupying power stations and airport runways is no qualm for the Plane Stupid activists).
Expertise in the different fields shone through, each stating personal struggles, successes, hopes and apprehensions. In the end, there was no gold, silver or bronze medals awarded, just three golden stars as each panellist stated different methods work for different audiences, and that we’re on the right track as long as the climate action movement is growing and constantly on the radar.
Recycle? Lobby your MP? Cycle to work? Create a youth-led flashmob? Convert the naysayers? Educate the ignorant? Get climate change in the national curriculum? Shut down a carbon spewing factory? The ball’s in your court.
The rest of the night was a music and spoken word fest – as I shed weight trying to catch each act running from the greenhouse in the garden to the room upstairs. Nick Lee provided some acoustic tunes, Becca Bland set a nice vibe with extracts from her upcoming novel, Pete the Temp (above) rocked the greenhouse with some sing-a-long anthems, there was a bit of folk by Martha Rose, some brilliant poetry by carbon footprint analyst and writer Danny Chivers, Yomi aka G.R.E.Ed.S (below) got everyone swaying with his guitar accompanied poetry, and finally (but far from least), Nick Mulvey closed the evening with a show-stopping (literally) set – which included his version of a Congolese beat; I doubt anyone understood a word of the Lingala verses – but it was soul-filling nonetheless.
The after party at Favela Chic in Old Street, together with Brazilian hip hop and rounds of Mojitos, meant it was a fabulous Thursday - albeit a heavy one, with a painful Friday morning as a follow-up.
£4 entry? For the Greenhouse Effect? Well worth the hangover.
Photos: Tekla Balfour
If you’re into the green life (in any way) I recommend checking out the Farm: Shop:
20 Dalston Lane
City of London
E8 3AZ
Or call:
020 3490 5124
This is also published on the Media Trust Community Channel
4/18/2011
Mali Youth Summit On HIV Round Up: What About HIV? Zero New Infections, Zero AIDS-Related Deaths & Zero Stigma and Discrimination. The Call To Action
Day 5: Closing Blog
So, it's the end of the Mali Youth Summit on HIV, and I'm off the plane; back in the UK - jetlagged, but inspired, tanned up and ready for action.
I went as a UK youth media representative and HIV activist, I return as part of a global movement. Not too shabby a deal.
What did I learn from the conference? If you've been following my daily blogs, the answer is, never enough.
Over 33 million people are living with HIV worldwide, 7000 new infections every day (3000 of those being in young people), over 10 million without access to HIV treatment. There is much great work happening around HIV prevention and justice (evidence supplied by my fellow youth ambassadors and the UNAIDS summit facilitators) - but with too many shortcomings past and present, there's still so much more that needs doing.
But having met and worked alongside some of the greatest minds and hearts at the summit, as well as already chowing down on endorsements from the likes of the President of Mali and the Executive Director of UNAIDS, Chinese TV presenter James Chau and even her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway - I conclude with the belief there is terrific potential with the newly formed youth-led global network to frontline what is being called the 'HIV/AIDS response revolution'.
All you need to know is on the Call to Action, detailing every facet of how it’s going to be done.
The lethal dose to HIV injustice has been created – now it just needs to be injected – and it will be, right in the lap of the President of the General Assembly of the UN at the GA High Level Meeting on AIDS this June. Trust, if it were possible, I'd play delivery boy quite happily.
Though not to be overlooked - undoubtedly it was a challenging graft putting our key messages and demands together in this document (I would know, having sat on the drafting committee). With the branches of HIV injustice spreading far and wide, the drafts chipped and changed from the start of the summit last Friday April 15, to the final moments yesterday evening. Yet consider a hotpot of 150+ passionate and outspoken HIV activists from across around 70 nations – and the journey towards this mission statement (however rocky) was an inevitable, and necessary one.
Now this Call to Action is a momentous stepping stone, a call out to Heads of States, governments, all leaders, all those possessing the political and social power (and the wads of cash) – to make this investment, as HIV justice does not speak solely to the interest of key populations; young people who use drugs, young men who have sex with men, young people living with HIV, young transgender people and young sex workers. This public health revolution applies to ALL.
If you care about morality, then you care about HIV.
Zero new infections, zero AIDS-related deaths and zero stigma and discrimination. Can it be done? Sign up to the Call to Action at www.whatabouthiv.org - every revolution starts somewhere.
So, it's the end of the Mali Youth Summit on HIV, and I'm off the plane; back in the UK - jetlagged, but inspired, tanned up and ready for action.
I went as a UK youth media representative and HIV activist, I return as part of a global movement. Not too shabby a deal.
What did I learn from the conference? If you've been following my daily blogs, the answer is, never enough.
Over 33 million people are living with HIV worldwide, 7000 new infections every day (3000 of those being in young people), over 10 million without access to HIV treatment. There is much great work happening around HIV prevention and justice (evidence supplied by my fellow youth ambassadors and the UNAIDS summit facilitators) - but with too many shortcomings past and present, there's still so much more that needs doing.
But having met and worked alongside some of the greatest minds and hearts at the summit, as well as already chowing down on endorsements from the likes of the President of Mali and the Executive Director of UNAIDS, Chinese TV presenter James Chau and even her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway - I conclude with the belief there is terrific potential with the newly formed youth-led global network to frontline what is being called the 'HIV/AIDS response revolution'.
All you need to know is on the Call to Action, detailing every facet of how it’s going to be done.
The lethal dose to HIV injustice has been created – now it just needs to be injected – and it will be, right in the lap of the President of the General Assembly of the UN at the GA High Level Meeting on AIDS this June. Trust, if it were possible, I'd play delivery boy quite happily.
Though not to be overlooked - undoubtedly it was a challenging graft putting our key messages and demands together in this document (I would know, having sat on the drafting committee). With the branches of HIV injustice spreading far and wide, the drafts chipped and changed from the start of the summit last Friday April 15, to the final moments yesterday evening. Yet consider a hotpot of 150+ passionate and outspoken HIV activists from across around 70 nations – and the journey towards this mission statement (however rocky) was an inevitable, and necessary one.
Now this Call to Action is a momentous stepping stone, a call out to Heads of States, governments, all leaders, all those possessing the political and social power (and the wads of cash) – to make this investment, as HIV justice does not speak solely to the interest of key populations; young people who use drugs, young men who have sex with men, young people living with HIV, young transgender people and young sex workers. This public health revolution applies to ALL.
If you care about morality, then you care about HIV.
Zero new infections, zero AIDS-related deaths and zero stigma and discrimination. Can it be done? Sign up to the Call to Action at www.whatabouthiv.org - every revolution starts somewhere.
4/17/2011
Mali UNAIDS Youth Summit On HIV - Day 4, Time In The Media Spotlight, Meeting A Norwegian Princess (And Finally A Bit Of Mali Life)
Struggling a bit with the heat and fatigue. When I look back at today, I think it’ll be a blur, but a fond fuzzy one at that.
More inspirational speeches, workshops and final touches to the ‘Call to Action’ document took up much of the Mali Youth Summit on HIV penultimate day – though unfortunately I missed chunks of the sessions; running around behind the scenes putting my own final touches to the ‘Traditional Media’ afternoon work group I was asked to facilitate.
What I did catch however was motivation talk at its best. Chinese TV presenter James Chau (CCTV News and World Wide Watch), lead on a few panel discussions – but the lively mood really boomed when he walked around the CIDB (Centre International des Conférences) conference room among the 150+ delegates for a ‘hot potato’ round; asking any youth leaders present to stand up and say one thing on the mic that they thought would aid this HIV social revolution.
There were voices from South Africa, China, Russia, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria and several more (and I mean SEVERAL more – in the end James didn’t have to walk over to the raised hands, some eager activists just followed him around the room waiting for their shout). I heard everything from “Support young women against HIV stigma and abuse, protect those who will nurture our future”, to “Put funding in the right place, for the people that need it the most, and where we can make the biggest impact”, and more than one saying loud and proud, “This is up to us. We must take responsibility… This is our movement – so let’s take charge right here, right now.”
Then an unexpected cameo appearance - her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway (pictured above with our photographer extraordinaire Kris Krug) stood up and stated her support for the HIV social revolution. I have little care for our own Royal Family, and to be honest, I couldn’t give a royal fanny about the Royal Wedding – but Princess Mette-Marit was of a different calibre at this conference; walking around the delegates preaching youth empowerment – renowned for being an engaging, warm speaking and on point youth ambassador for youth initiatives.
“We must mobilise the youth, have faith in our ability, and in our collaboration” said the Princess, adding “If the governments and local communities do not respond, do not wait, create your own networks and initiatives, work at it and make it so you cannot be ignored.”
Then it was my small media time to shine, given the task of explaining the ins and outs of press releases and op-eds, as well as building a strategic plan to push for youth-led media promotion of this summit’s Call to Action. With 5 other working groups happening simultaneously (others on activism, youth leadership, social networking, community engagement and building partnerships) I was happy to have just a concise group of 12 dedicated media players, up for harnessing the awareness and support of the Call to Action. With revolutionary reps and HIV activists from Egypt to Mexico, China and Togo, it was a dynamic media hub of resources geared up to make headlines on ground.
The end presentations were great (including one lead by awesome Tanzanian VJ/DJ starlet Vanessa Mdee - above left) and I hope that 2-hour network time will be a long-lasting one as we take our action plan forward. Yet one spot of realisation I must mention is perhaps a bad assumption generally; that it would be hard for some people at the summit to grasp a session on social media if they did not have readily available internet access, or training in modern media.
True story for some, false for others – a vital factor to consider regardless, and a point brought up already by Mauritian delegate Guffron Rostum yesterday.
However, nearing the end of my work group, Togolese delegate Afawoubo Komi Gagnon (below left) completely flipped perspectives on the issue concerning accessibility to media platforms. Nevermind Twitter (which he has), Facebook and other ‘modern’ social media, the 23 year old stated that when it comes to traditional media: “It will be very difficult in my country as remote areas often do not have TVs, or radio, or the literacy skills are too limited to read newspapers and magazines.”
But being a big media enthusiast eager to learn more about the various processes (which explained his sign up for my work group), we exchanged emails and arranged plans for me to mentor him part-time post conference.
No biggy.
Afawoubo - like with so many of the delegates at this summit - is stating the issues that need to be addressed and not forgotten; and it’s only a good thing to hear such a voice. After the launch of the Call to Action tomorrow (April 17), we must continue to consider the pitfalls and the strengths, and work on both. We should believe in success, but not fear failures – which can be remedied by this immerging global network. And there’s proof with Afawoubo becoming my latest colleague.
Note: It’s late now and my fingers are cramping up. It’s my last night in Mali before the closing tomorrow. I’m off, logging off – as I check out a Mali culture/HIV celebration night, do a little Mali dance, eat a little Mali food, live a bit of Mali life.
Credit: Kris Krug
Final update tomorrow + the official HIV/AIDS Call to Action.
More inspirational speeches, workshops and final touches to the ‘Call to Action’ document took up much of the Mali Youth Summit on HIV penultimate day – though unfortunately I missed chunks of the sessions; running around behind the scenes putting my own final touches to the ‘Traditional Media’ afternoon work group I was asked to facilitate.
What I did catch however was motivation talk at its best. Chinese TV presenter James Chau (CCTV News and World Wide Watch), lead on a few panel discussions – but the lively mood really boomed when he walked around the CIDB (Centre International des Conférences) conference room among the 150+ delegates for a ‘hot potato’ round; asking any youth leaders present to stand up and say one thing on the mic that they thought would aid this HIV social revolution.
There were voices from South Africa, China, Russia, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria and several more (and I mean SEVERAL more – in the end James didn’t have to walk over to the raised hands, some eager activists just followed him around the room waiting for their shout). I heard everything from “Support young women against HIV stigma and abuse, protect those who will nurture our future”, to “Put funding in the right place, for the people that need it the most, and where we can make the biggest impact”, and more than one saying loud and proud, “This is up to us. We must take responsibility… This is our movement – so let’s take charge right here, right now.”
Then an unexpected cameo appearance - her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway (pictured above with our photographer extraordinaire Kris Krug) stood up and stated her support for the HIV social revolution. I have little care for our own Royal Family, and to be honest, I couldn’t give a royal fanny about the Royal Wedding – but Princess Mette-Marit was of a different calibre at this conference; walking around the delegates preaching youth empowerment – renowned for being an engaging, warm speaking and on point youth ambassador for youth initiatives.
“We must mobilise the youth, have faith in our ability, and in our collaboration” said the Princess, adding “If the governments and local communities do not respond, do not wait, create your own networks and initiatives, work at it and make it so you cannot be ignored.”
Then it was my small media time to shine, given the task of explaining the ins and outs of press releases and op-eds, as well as building a strategic plan to push for youth-led media promotion of this summit’s Call to Action. With 5 other working groups happening simultaneously (others on activism, youth leadership, social networking, community engagement and building partnerships) I was happy to have just a concise group of 12 dedicated media players, up for harnessing the awareness and support of the Call to Action. With revolutionary reps and HIV activists from Egypt to Mexico, China and Togo, it was a dynamic media hub of resources geared up to make headlines on ground.
The end presentations were great (including one lead by awesome Tanzanian VJ/DJ starlet Vanessa Mdee - above left) and I hope that 2-hour network time will be a long-lasting one as we take our action plan forward. Yet one spot of realisation I must mention is perhaps a bad assumption generally; that it would be hard for some people at the summit to grasp a session on social media if they did not have readily available internet access, or training in modern media.
True story for some, false for others – a vital factor to consider regardless, and a point brought up already by Mauritian delegate Guffron Rostum yesterday.
However, nearing the end of my work group, Togolese delegate Afawoubo Komi Gagnon (below left) completely flipped perspectives on the issue concerning accessibility to media platforms. Nevermind Twitter (which he has), Facebook and other ‘modern’ social media, the 23 year old stated that when it comes to traditional media: “It will be very difficult in my country as remote areas often do not have TVs, or radio, or the literacy skills are too limited to read newspapers and magazines.”
But being a big media enthusiast eager to learn more about the various processes (which explained his sign up for my work group), we exchanged emails and arranged plans for me to mentor him part-time post conference.
No biggy.
Afawoubo - like with so many of the delegates at this summit - is stating the issues that need to be addressed and not forgotten; and it’s only a good thing to hear such a voice. After the launch of the Call to Action tomorrow (April 17), we must continue to consider the pitfalls and the strengths, and work on both. We should believe in success, but not fear failures – which can be remedied by this immerging global network. And there’s proof with Afawoubo becoming my latest colleague.
Note: It’s late now and my fingers are cramping up. It’s my last night in Mali before the closing tomorrow. I’m off, logging off – as I check out a Mali culture/HIV celebration night, do a little Mali dance, eat a little Mali food, live a bit of Mali life.
Credit: Kris Krug
Final update tomorrow + the official HIV/AIDS Call to Action.
4/15/2011
Mali UNAIDS Youth Summit On HIV - Day 3, HIV, A Mauritian Encounter, The Drug Intervention, And The President Of Mali
The President of Mali walks in and the national anthem hits. The bustling room at Bamako's Centre International des Conférences bears witness to the first ever gathering of around 150 young HIV activists repping from 70+ nations. Though I struggle to mumble the words (of an anthem I don't understand), the pride is still there as President Amadou Toumani Touré stands on stage at the centre of a panel with the tagline backdrop banner stating: 'The emergence of a new generation of leaders against AIDS/HIV'. The Mali Global Summit on HIV is officially kickstarted.
I've been in Mali for two days now, and my forehead is sunburnt to a crisp, but that aside, today was awesome - and provided an unbelievable wealth of eye opening issues surrounding the HIV activism movement. Where the hell do I start...? Let's go back to the opening ceremony and panel.
There were a few highlights from the 2-3 hour welcoming session and overview. The stat thrown out that there are 7000 new infections of HIV every day (40% of those are young adults) resonated with every one in the room. There were a few spontaneous rallying outbursts from the audience; the delegates were hyped, locked and loaded to be the shotgun in the fight against HIV injustice.
Support was provided from all corners, including the President of the Republic of Gabon who sent a video message. President Ali Bongo Ondimba left us with: "We expect from our leaders of tomorrow to lead in the fight against HIV injustice which is breaking up families around the world."
Michel Sidibé (above left), the Mali-born Executive Director of UNAIDS, stepped up the gear in the auditorium; thrilled to host the summit in his home country. Michel touched upon the complex history of Mali, but spoke of the progress made since the election (and subsequent re-elections) of Mali President Amadou Tamani Toure, who came to power in 1991 "scaling the country... giving the minimal services for his people, bringing democracy to the country." Michel asked all to take note of what has happened in Mali, as well as how China has responded vigourously to HIV issues, what is happening in Tunisia, and in Egypt (on a political activism level) - and to realise such a social revolution was happening right here in Bamako.
"Over 10 million people around the world need not die because they can't get access to HIV treatment. We must work together to ensure the value of life is not different from Bamako to New York" Michel added. Speaking directly to the delegates he finished with, "You are not the leaders of tomorrow, you are the leaders of today. Let's facilitate places for HIV treatment, build concrete actions, make our societies more inclusive, and may sexual and HIV education be the vaccine."
Then it was the turn of President Toure (above and below), who made a promise to deliver the summit message and youth voice to the High Level summit in June. Toure spoke of empowerment: "We must and we will stand against any discrimination towards HIV. No longer will patients have to go to get their HIV treatment, the antiretrovirals should be delivered to them (free of charge). We will build upon the national fund for those fighting HIV/AIDS... And I encourage all the young people involved to be cautious, but vigilant - use your power to take care of yourselves now, and for the future."
With all this inspirational chit chat (plus the outstanding Mali music and dance entertainment - see below), it was almost easy to forget there was much work to do!
Working groups and process meetings took up the next few hours, providing action plans for the attendees evolved around youth leadership, access to information and HIV services (for key population high-risk areas in particular), laws and policies effecting stigma and discrimination, and HIV resources and funding. All of the information and feedback was compiled to form the final 'Call to Action' document (which I'll release on here on Sunday April 18). Right now, that document is being moderated by youth leaders repping and volunteering from 7 nations, before the final draft comes though to myself and the drafting committee tomorrow night (so no Mali clubbing as hoped for, I’ve got an all-nighter date with my good old laptop).
Pretty heavy stuff – I know. Right now I type this dreary eyed with beads of sweat running down my crispy forehead, with the veggie Chinese food I just ate weighing me down down into my pillow. All the whilst I’m trying to take this all in, and wonder (as with many I’ve spoken to) about the real impact, and outcome of this 3 day conference… Two presidents and an executive director have shown support and amped up the summit, but what about the youth leaders here who will lead the social movement? Soaked in humidity, but are they soaking up the content and vision of this event? I close this blog with the integral voices, two perspectives I found as the sun set on conference Day 1.
It was awesome to meet a delegate from my homeland, Mauritius. 24 year old Guffran Rostom (above left) who travelled up from Quatre Bornes, told me about his work as a HIV Prevention and Advocacy Officer for NGO, PILS (Prevention Information Et Lutte Contre Le SIDA); who focus on supporting vulnerable children in ‘informal’ schools with sexual education. Having not been back to Mauritius since 1999 I had no idea HIV was so prevalent there, but Guffran assured me his work and more support was needed in a small country of which 0.97% of the population have HIV (70% caused by infecting drug users i.e. transmission through dirty syringes). A drug intervention and harm reduction (by pushing medical centres to commit to replacing the dirty syringes with clean needles) needs a section in the HIV Call to Action plan Guffran affirms: “Over 10,000 people in Mauritius are using heroin… harm reduction, methadone substitutes and drug therapy will all help immensely in the fight against HIV.”
When asked about the summit overall, he called it a “great moment to create this global network of participation and activism.” But practically, we discussed a number of obvious challenges – such as the different levels of technology and access to (and knowledge of) social networks dependant on where you are in the world. And with that, there is the issue of the sheer quantity of regions and issues involved (which could cause conflicting priorities). These truths cannot be overlooked.
And that brings me onto my last interview of the day, with 19 year old Kenyan, Geoffrey Ochieng Gomba (above left) – who sees many great aspects of the summit, but hopes it won’t prove to be a complete waste of time. To be honest, it’s not in Geoffrey’s nature to be sitting around listening, he’s our modern day African Action Man. Born HIV positive, he’s always been a HIV activist, and has been working for a small initiative in Kenya protecting and supporting young women with HIV since the age of 11. His passion shines though: “There is never enough we can do. HIV is prevalent in 4.7% of women in Kenya, and with the discrimination and abuse some face – we need action now… It’s not even an issue of HIV sometimes, but an issue of morality, as women with or without HIV are getting maltreated. They need to be empowered now, and know their rights.” Though the atmosphere at this summit is buzzing, Geoffrey has no patience for politics, complications or slow compromise. “Life is too short” he says, with plans to go travel to every African nation and lead a charge for HIV/AIDS justice.
In my personal opinion, the political game inevitably plays a major factor in any global revolution.
Nevertheless, whatever Guffran and Geoffrey’s intentions are post conference, I do feel their apprehensions (however big or small) about the long-term impact are justified. At the same time, I can’t imagine any better people to input into this potential global movement and Call to Action.
From all the conversations I’ve had thus far, the fears and belief, criticisms and praise - who better than those passionate people on ground working with HIV issues to guarantee all areas are covered. That alone will keep this buzz going.
Credit: Photographer Kris Krug - for every awesome snapshot, except the last crappy ones I took on my phone.
4/14/2011
Mali UNAIDS Youth Summit On HIV – Day 2, First Point Of Contact
So, somehow I’m now on the UNAIDS ‘Call for Action’ drafting committee… think it comes from sitting by the Massaley Hotel pool last night chit chatting with some awesome UNAIDS reps about their work, this Mali Youth Summit on HIV and what we all wanted to get out of it; a more just and facilitated global system for those living with HIV and AIDS. Now I’m throwing my two cence and more in…
Whilst the ‘Call for Action’ document (set to be published to the delegates and the world on Sunday April 18) is confidential and going through the track changes, I can deliver a teaser that it’s all about mobilising a global movement of young people to rally governments, civil societies, relevant organisations and each other to pump up the work surrounding HIV prevention, HIV education and stigma eradication – along with a mass of other branches that will contribute to various goals ahead of the High Level Summit in June.
How will it work? Who will plant the seeds of this massively important, yet daunting mission? A lot of those answers will come out of the summit, which starts tomorrow (April 15). And I have good reason for optimism. Aside from the obvious highlights – which include preparing to meet around 1000 HIV activists, plus a press conference with the President of Mali – today I got to meet and great just a handful of the inspirational young delegates.
It was by chance really, as I walked into a brief meeting with the bunch at the UNAIDS office in Bamako whilst trying to get a hold of my expenses (which are paying for my lush meals of omelette and salad – the best of the best on the veggie side of the menu). In the sweltering heat, I looked like a bit of a sweaty wreck upon interrupting the session, but it was smiles and handshakes all around as I exchanged introductions with social and HIV activists, youth ambassadors, entrepreneurs and peer educators from Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Mauritania, Canada and North America, Trinidad, Australia, China, Gambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Namibia; each one stating how they were community and youth leaders setting up platforms for their people (regionally and now internationally) in the fight for HIV justice.
Credit: Photographer Kris Krug
And I repeat – this room was just a sprinkle from the buffet of amazing people I’ll be meeting, and working with over the next couple of days.
Much to look forward to. Stay tuned.
Whilst the ‘Call for Action’ document (set to be published to the delegates and the world on Sunday April 18) is confidential and going through the track changes, I can deliver a teaser that it’s all about mobilising a global movement of young people to rally governments, civil societies, relevant organisations and each other to pump up the work surrounding HIV prevention, HIV education and stigma eradication – along with a mass of other branches that will contribute to various goals ahead of the High Level Summit in June.
How will it work? Who will plant the seeds of this massively important, yet daunting mission? A lot of those answers will come out of the summit, which starts tomorrow (April 15). And I have good reason for optimism. Aside from the obvious highlights – which include preparing to meet around 1000 HIV activists, plus a press conference with the President of Mali – today I got to meet and great just a handful of the inspirational young delegates.
It was by chance really, as I walked into a brief meeting with the bunch at the UNAIDS office in Bamako whilst trying to get a hold of my expenses (which are paying for my lush meals of omelette and salad – the best of the best on the veggie side of the menu). In the sweltering heat, I looked like a bit of a sweaty wreck upon interrupting the session, but it was smiles and handshakes all around as I exchanged introductions with social and HIV activists, youth ambassadors, entrepreneurs and peer educators from Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Mauritania, Canada and North America, Trinidad, Australia, China, Gambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Namibia; each one stating how they were community and youth leaders setting up platforms for their people (regionally and now internationally) in the fight for HIV justice.
Credit: Photographer Kris Krug
And I repeat – this room was just a sprinkle from the buffet of amazing people I’ll be meeting, and working with over the next couple of days.
Much to look forward to. Stay tuned.
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